Process and Principles

If therapists help you unpack the past and life coaches help you plan for the future, I’m here to help you set expectations for right now.

My Principles

Photo of five plants backlit by a sunny window, alongside a lava lamp, jug of water and three glass jellyfish figures.

An area of my room I arranged to nurture me. Features five plants backlit by a sunny window, alongside a lava lamp and three glass jellyfish figures.

I start from the premise that you deserve to feel organized and in control of your life. Yes, even you. Whether or not you have the money. Whether or not you’ve struggled hard enough on your own. Whether or not you love yourself right now.

My work is rooted in:

  1. Intentionality. Like many people, it’s easier for me to do something when I know why I’m doing it, can visualize the end-result, and can anticipate the hard parts. I am intentional about setting up intimate, safe and supportive spaces with my clients, and I help clients clarify their own intentions for what they need.

  2. Accountability. I perpetually struggle to hold myself accountable, to return to the mindset I was in when I made those promises. Most of my life I was motivated by shame, and I’m working to change that for myself and in my interpersonal relationships. I hold myself accountable by regularly asking clients what they want to get out of work, checking in whether it’s working, and prioritizing client’s self-determination and healing.

  3. Accessibility. I hate when there’s something I think could help me, but I don't know how to get it, or I don’t even think it’s for me. We all deserve (and require) help, so I strive to make my services accessible to anyone who needs them. I offer a sliding scale hourly rate, and figure out with clients what’s possible within their budget. I love helping clients make their spaces accessible for themselves, for when they don’t have as many spoons.

  4. Empathy. I have experienced a lifetime of people not understanding me, and it sucks. I hate it. I base my practice in empathy, understanding where people are coming from and what they need. In particular, I do not push clients to “Let go of things” or conform to social norms; instead, I help you figure out what you need to serve your purposes, and how to show this same empathy to yourself so you build a routine you can follow. Respecting autonomy is especially important to me when you purchase my services as a gift, and when working with young people and disabled people. (See FAQ)

“elly helped me design a space that would work for me - not for who I aspired to or pretended to be, but who I actually am.” Annie, Client Reflections